People with different abilities now have a place to develop skills for sports and fitness

WHO: The Gavilan College Board of Trustees, and the students and staff of Gavilan College Adaptive Physical Education program

WHAT: Will celebrate the official opening of the Adaptive Physical Education building on the Gilroy campus. Speakers will include Gavilan College president Steve Kinsella, and Board President Laura Perry. The Gilroy Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors will begin the event with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Following the presentations, visitors will have a chance to tour the building, and see specialized equipment demonstrated.

The state of the art equipment, ground-up construction, and carefully planned layout for accessiblility will make this among the top Adaptive Physical Education buildings at a California Community College.Contractors involved include Kitchell CEM (Construction management), KBZ Architects, Inc., and Rushford Construction Co., Inc.

Adaptive Physical Education offers students with diverse limitations the opportunity to participate in physical activit, using equipment specifically designed for their needs. The new building has two sections: a gym with an adaptive basketball court and special flooring, and a "Human Performance Lab", an exercise room with adaptive equipment for workouts. During the hours when the Adaptive program is not in session, the faciltiy will be made accessible to other students as well.

Gavilan College has offered a program of Adaptive Physical Education since 1986. The new building replaces a small and inadequate room off the gymnasium which was formerly used for the program. Fall semester classes have been underway in the new facility while exterior work on the site was still being completed.

WHY: For the students who will use this building, and the staff who have been involved in its planning, there is much to celebrate. The Adaptive Physical Education Programs provides access to physical activity and physical fitness to people who are unable to use standard equipment, but still want to participate in sports and fitness. Many have special needs, and require an individualized program of conditioning to realize their physical potential.

The project was funded through a voter approved State bond for educational facilities (Prop1A). The project included the construction of the new building, and the renovation of the women's locker room.

The Adaptive Physical Education building may be used by individuals with a multitude of needs including recuperation from permanent and temporary injuries, seniors, people with back injuries, post-stroke recovery, arthritis and connective tissue limitations. It is expected to serve 150-200 individuals per semester.

To participate in Adaptive Physical Education classes, individuals must have a medically verified disability. The program is attractive to people who are going through physical therapy. It helps to build physical endurance, and enhance strength and flexibility. For more information about the Adaptive Physical Education program, call Gavilan College Disabled Students Programs and Services at (408) 848-4865.